Journalists were on Monday barred from covering the ongoing trial of six alleged coup plotters accused of attempting to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu, raising concerns about transparency in one of Nigeria’s most closely watched national security cases.
The suspects, who are facing a 13-count charge involving allegations of treason, terrorism, money laundering, and failure to disclose security intelligence, were brought into the courtroom under heavy security at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The case is being presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, while prosecution is led by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi.
The defendants include Major General Ibrahim Gana (retd), retired naval captain Erasmus Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani. All except former Minister of Petroleum Timipre Sylva, who is reportedly at large, were present in court and pleaded not guilty when the charges were read.
The Federal Government alleges that the accused conspired in 2025 to “levy war against the state” with the aim of overthrowing the president. Prosecutors also claim the defendants failed to report knowledge of an alleged planned treasonable act involving other individuals.
Following their plea, the prosecution requested that the defendants be remanded in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) and that the trial proceed on an accelerated basis. The court granted the request, ordering DSS detention and setting an expedited hearing schedule.
However, Monday’s proceedings drew criticism after journalists were denied access to cover the hearing, despite the case not being officially declared a secret trial. Judiciary correspondents expressed uncertainty about the direction of the proceedings, particularly as bail applications remain pending.
Observers say the restriction on press coverage has heightened concerns over openness in a case involving serious national security allegations and high-profile defendants.
The court had earlier adjourned proceedings to April 27 for continuation of the trial, with heightened security presence reported around the courthouse during hearings.
As the case progresses, attention is expected to remain focused not only on the charges but also on issues surrounding due process, media access, and judicial transparency.
